Imran Khan: Global Concern Mounts Over Former Prime Minister’s Health in Detention
London, 17 February 2026 – International pressure is intensifying on the Pakistani government as reports emerge regarding the deteriorating health of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The 73-year-old PTI founder, who remains incarcerated following multiple convictions, is reportedly suffering from significant vision loss, sparking protests across Pakistan and a formal plea for intervention from global sporting legends.
Severe Vision Loss Reported in Prison
Legal representatives for Mr Khan informed the Supreme Court this week that the former Prime Minister has lost approximately 85% of the vision in his right eye. The defence team alleges that prison authorities failed to provide timely medical intervention, leading to permanent damage. While a government medical board recently claimed Mr Khan’s eyesight was “fine” and showing signs of improvement, his sister, Aleema Khan, has publicly rejected these findings, accusing the state of obfuscating the severity of his condition.
The situation has led to widespread civil unrest. Allies of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party have entered a third day of protests, with motorways blocked and several arrests reported. Mr Khan is currently seeking release on medical grounds to undergo urgent surgery, following a previous procedure earlier this year.
Cricket Legends Demand Humane Treatment
The plight of the 1992 World Cup-winning captain has resonated far beyond the political sphere. A group of international cricket icons, including former England captains Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain, alongside Indian legends Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have signed a joint letter addressed to the Pakistani government. The signatories are demanding that Mr Khan be treated with dignity and provided with medical care that meets international standards.
Key Facts: Imran Khan’s Career and Current Status
The following table outlines the professional trajectory and current legal standing of the former Prime Minister based on verified records.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Imran Ahmed Khan Niazi |
| Education | Keble College, Oxford (Philosophy, Politics and Economics) |
| Political Party | Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), founded 1996 |
| Prime Ministerial Term | 22nd Prime Minister of Pakistan (2018–2022) |
| Notable Policy | Universal healthcare provision in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab |
| Current Status | Incarcerated; serving multiple sentences including a 17-year term added in December 2025 |
| Health Concerns | Reported 85% vision loss in right eye (as of February 2026) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Imran Khan removed from office?
In 2022, Imran Khan became the first Prime Minister in Pakistan’s history to be removed from office through a parliamentary vote of no confidence. He has since maintained that his removal was part of an “anti-establishment” struggle.
What are the current allegations regarding his health?
His legal team and family allege that he has suffered a 15% reduction in total vision, specifically affecting his right eye, due to medical neglect within the prison system. They are currently petitioning the Supreme Court for his transfer to a hospital for specialised surgery.
Is Imran Khan still a significant political figure?
Despite his incarceration and inability to appear on recent ballots, Mr Khan remains a potent political force in Pakistan. Public insights suggest he maintains a strong grassroots following, with supporters viewing his leadership as a necessary path toward reform and anti-corruption.